MADRID — Real Madrid says central defender Raphael Varane has been diagnosed with a right thigh injury that will likely sideline him for three weeks, leaving coach Rafa Benitez with a depleted back line.
The France international limped off the field in Lviv in the 32nd minute of Madrid’s 4-3 win against Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League.
With Sergio Ramos and Marcelo out, Benitez will likely rely on Pepe and Jose Ignacio "Nacho" Fernandez as central defenders and Dani Carvajal and Danilo covering the flanks for Sunday’s league match at Eibar.
Varane also looks set to miss league matches against Getafe and Villarreal as well as two Copa del Rey legs against Cadiz, and the final Champions League group stage match against Malmo.
